Residents voice fears over new homes plan

Concerned residents met at Low Moor Club to voice their objections to the proposed development of the Hargreaves and Coates site at the back of St Paul’s Church in Low Moor.

A planning application has been submitted for the erection of two rows of three terraced properties, running parallel to St Paul’s Terrace, with additional parking for 12 vehicles. The plan proposes a one-way system, with traffic approaching the site via the back alley adjacent to the war memorial at the side of Low Moor Club and the end of the terraced houses.

Residents complained that access to this site is not feasible as the opening is not wide enough to cater for every day traffic and would add to the already problematic flow of traffic up and down St Paul’s Street. Parking is a major issue, with residents having only one side of the road available to park cars. The back of St Paul’s Street has provided some parking space, but if the back were to be a through street, parking would obstruct vehicle access.

Many other issues were addressed, including proximity of buildings to established housing, the safety of pedestrians, especially children approaching the playing fields, and the consideration of contamination of land at the proposed site. All who attended the meeting agreed to oppose the planning application and address their concerns to the newly-elected councillors for Edisford and Low Moor.